China is a country full of wonders, offering a mix of ancient history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural landscapes. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, China has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll explore the top cities you must visit for an unforgettable experience.
Key Takeaways
- Beijing is the perfect place to dive into China’s rich history and culture.
- Shanghai offers a mix of modern life and historical landmarks.
- Xi’an is home to the famous Terracotta Warriors and ancient city walls.
- Guilin is known for its breathtaking natural scenery.
- Chengdu is the place to see adorable pandas and enjoy spicy food.
1. Beijing
Beijing, the capital city of the People’s Republic of China, is a must-visit for anyone Traveling to China. As the country’s seat of power for over 850 years, Beijing is a "modern" imperial capital and the center of the nation’s politics, culture, science, education, and international exchanges. It is also a bustling metropolis full of vitality.
Beijing is one of the biggest ancient capitals in China and houses the largest number of cultural heritages in the country, with six UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The city offers an incomparable insight into China’s history with its opulent palaces, sublime temples, imperial gardens, tombs, and walls attracting countless visitors from across the globe.
- Top Attractions in Beijing:
- The Forbidden City
- The Great Wall of China
- Tiananmen Square
- The Summer Palace
- Temple of Heaven
Beijing’s top-tier imperial attractions include the Forbidden City and the Great Wall, making it a prime destination for anyone Visiting China.
In most China tour packages, Beijing is often the first stop. Ranking as the top tourist hub in China, the city is famous for its splendors dating back to the Ming-Qing dynasty. To many, Beijing became an architectural masterpiece during the last two dynasties of Chinese feudalism. Traveling in China is incomplete without experiencing the rich history and modern vibrancy of Beijing.
2. Shanghai
Shanghai is a bustling city that perfectly blends the old with the new. As a major hub of China, it plays a crucial role in both the Chinese and Asian economies. Located in the middle of the Chinese coast, Shanghai sits at the mouth of the Yangtze River, making it a key part of the Yangtze River delta economic area.
Visitors to Shanghai can enjoy a mix of futuristic skylines, European influences, and deep Chinese roots. The city offers great parks, urban spaces, a creative art scene, vibrant nightlife, and excellent food from all over China. It’s no wonder Shanghai is a popular destination for both tourists and residents.
- Must-do things in Shanghai:
- Explore the Bund for its historic buildings and stunning views of the modern skyline.
- Visit Yu Garden, a classic Chinese garden with beautiful pavilions and ponds.
- Walk along Nanjing Road, one of the world’s busiest shopping streets.
- Experience the Shanghai Tower, the tallest building in China.
Shanghai is a city of contrasts, where you can find both ancient temples and cutting-edge skyscrapers. It’s a place where history and modernity coexist in perfect harmony.
3. Xi’an
Xi’an, once known as Changan, is a city steeped in history and culture. As the ancient capital of China during the Zhou dynasty, it marks the beginning of the Silk Road trade route. Xi’an is hugely significant to China’s history, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in the past.
Must-Do Things in Xi’an
- Visit the Museum of Qin Terra-Cotta Warriors and Horses, an ancient burial site with thousands of life-size soldiers, horses, and chariots.
- Walk along the Xi’an City Wall (Chengqiang), one of the oldest and best-preserved city walls in China.
- Explore the vibrant Muslim Quarter, known for its diverse food and bustling markets.
Suggested Time
Plan to spend 3-4 days in Xi’an to fully appreciate its rich history and cultural offerings.
Best For
- History enthusiasts
- Culture seekers
- Museum lovers
- Foodies
Stay Here
Consider staying at He Hotel for a comfortable and convenient experience.
4. Guilin
Guilin’s idyllic scenery draws millions of tourists from near and far every year. Its marvelous limestone scenery is renowned as "the most beautiful on earth". The fresh air and countryside scenery make it an ideal place to escape industrial pollution.
Renowned for majestic karst landscape, Guilin, a city in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Southern China is endowed with spectacular scenery that surely arouses the interest of any nature enthusiast. The city is set amidst a peaceful setting of verdant hills, mountains, and graceful grasslands. Guilin is well-known as the land of numerous natural attractions including beautiful caves, unique karst formations, picturesque Li River, to idyllic rural scenery or stunning rice terraced fields.
When comparing to many other famous cities all over the country, Guilin looks like a young lady that quietly sitting on Southern China with the pleasing natural beauty of traditional Chinese ink paintings. Hence, the city attracts a lot of foreign travellers each year who expect to savour one of the most beautiful natural scenery in China. The sought-after tourist attractions in Guilin for any traveller are:
GUILIN HAS BEEN OFFICIALLY LISTED AS A NATION FAMOUS HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL CITY BY THE CHINESE GOVERNMENT. IT’S ONE OF CHINA’S MOST POPULAR TOURIST DESTINATIONS AND A PLACE OF OUTSTANDING NATURAL BEAUTY. WORDS CAN ONLY DO SO MUCH IN DESCRIBING SUCH A PLACE AND I’M SURE YOU CAN SEE FROM THE PICTURES WHAT WE MEAN.
GUILIN IS REACHABLE BY TRAIN FROM MANY MAJOR CITIES. STILL, UNLIKE MANY OF THE OTHER CITIES IN THIS LIST, VISITORS TO GUILIN ARE NOT ADVISED TO GO THERE FOR THE BARS, RESTAURANTS OR SHOPPING CENTRES BUT FOR THE SHEER JOY OF LOOKING AT THE LANDSCAPES FORMED BY THE RIVERS, MOUNTAINS AND RICE PADDY FIELDS. IF YOU SPEAK SOME MANDARIN, IT WOULD ALSO BE A GREAT EXPERIENCE TO INTERACT WITH THE LOCALS, SOME OF WHOM WILL HAVE LIVED SUCH A DIFFERENT LIFE TO YOU THAT IT’S ALMOST DIFFICULT TO COMPREHEND.
5. Chengdu
Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province, is a city with a rich tapestry of history and culture. Known as the political, economic, and cultural hub of Sichuan, it earned the title of National Historic and Cultural City in 1982. When you explore the streets of the old city at Kuanzhai Alley or visit the many monasteries and temples like Wuhou or Wenshu Yuan, you can see its beautiful history.
Chengdu is perhaps most famous for being home to the Giant Panda. At the Giant Panda Breeding Centre, researchers are working hard to help these rare animals come back from the brink of extinction. It’s a fascinating journey into ecology and conservation, and the pandas are VERY cute!
Chengdu also boasts a range of spicy delicacies unique to the area. Mouth-numbing peppers are available in foods from simple noodle dishes to giant hot pots. If you love spicy food and trying new things, then Chengdu is the city for you!
Sichuan’s capital city really surprised us. We came in search of cute pandas and fiery hotpot but found so much more. Chengdu is one of our favorite cities in China, and we definitely see ourselves returning there again.
6. Zhangjiajie
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is a must-see scenic area in China, known for its towering sandstone pillars, clear streams, and dense forests. This park became famous worldwide after the movie Avatar featured its stunning landscapes.
Top Things to Do
- Walk the Glass Bridge: Challenge your fear of heights on the world’s highest glass bridge and enjoy unparalleled panoramas.
- Explore the Yellow Dragon Cave: Discover a wonderland of colorful geological formations, shimmering pools, and intricate rock formations.
- Relax by Baofeng Lake: Take a boat ride on the serene lake, enjoy the picturesque scenery, and escape the crowds.
- Ride the Bailong Elevator: Experience breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery.
- Hike through Tianzi Mountain: Witness stunning rock formations, panoramic views, and unique flora and fauna.
- Hike along the Golden Whip Stream: Follow a picturesque trail that winds through lush forests.
For a more tranquil experience, visit during the off-season and consider staying in a hotel within the park to fully immerse yourself in its natural beauty.
7. Hong Kong
Hong Kong is a unique blend of Chinese and Western cultures, making it a famous business, financial, and shopping hub. The city is known for its countless skyscrapers and cultural diversity, featuring colonial buildings and traditional temples. Visitors can explore narrow, busy streets in areas like Wan Chai, Tsim Sha Tsui, and Lan Kwai Fong, which are lined with stores, clubs, and restaurants offering delicious local cuisine.
Hong Kong is a special administrative region of China, located on the eastern Pearl River Delta. It covers an area of 1,104 km² and is home to 7.5 million people, making it one of the most densely populated places in the world. The city was a British colony from 1842 until it was handed back to China in 1997. Today, it operates under the "one country, two systems" principle, maintaining separate governing and economic systems from mainland China.
Hong Kong’s tradition of Dim Sum, a South Chinese brunch with various bite-sized dishes, is a must-try for any visitor.
Top Attractions
- The Peak
- Lan Kwai Fong
- The Big Buddha
Best For
- Food
- Shopping
- Skyline
- British Heritage
Suggested Time
- 2-3 days
Stay Here
- Butterfly on Wellington
8. Yunnan
Located in Southwest China, Yunnan is known for its pleasant weather—warm in winter and cool in summer. This region is the most diverse and colorful area in China. You can hike across the Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the deepest gorges on the planet, or visit the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Enjoy a lazy time in the old towns or bike with the refreshing breezes of Erhai Lake.
Yunnan is also a family-friendly destination due to its rich nature, food, and cultural experiences. You could get inspiration from our guide on how to plan a family trip to Yunnan.
- 8-Day Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, and Shangri-La Tour – Meet the Amazing Beauty of Yunnan
- 9-Day Yunnan Family Tour – Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, and Shangri-La
Yunnan offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, making it a must-visit destination for travelers of all ages.
9. Hangzhou
Hangzhou is a beautiful city in Southeast China, known for its rich history and stunning landscapes. The city has been around for nearly 2,200 years and was once an imperial retreat for Beijing’s emperors. Today, it remains a popular destination for tourists.
West Lake
One of the most famous spots in Hangzhou is West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This serene lake is surrounded by ancient temples, pagodas, and arched stone bridges. A stroll along the ancient causeways offers a glimpse into the city’s past.
Lingyin Temple
Another must-see is Lingyin Temple, one of the largest and wealthiest Buddhist temples in China. The temple is nestled in a lush forest, making it a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.
Tea Gardens
Hangzhou is also famous for its tea gardens. The Longjing Tea Plantation is a great place to learn about tea production and enjoy a cup of freshly brewed tea.
Hangzhou is often visited as a day trip from Shanghai, but it deserves at least three full days to truly appreciate its beauty and history.
Other Attractions
- Leifeng Pagoda
- Wuzhen Water Town
- Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal
- Six Harmonies Pagoda
10. Huangshan
Huangshan, also known as Yellow Mountain, is a must-visit destination in China. Famous for its stunning natural scenery, it features iconic granite peaks, ancient pine trees, and a mesmerizing sea of clouds. Located in Anhui province, about 60 kilometers from Huangshan City, this place is perfect for nature lovers and hikers.
Highlights
- Yellow Mountain: Known for its breathtaking beauty and ethereal sea of clouds.
- Hot Springs: Relax at the base of the mountain after a long hike.
- Ancient Villages: Explore nearby Hongcun and Xidi villages for a glimpse into traditional Chinese life.
The legendary natural scenery of Huangshan guarantees an unforgettable journey through time. Whether you reach the summit or enjoy the hot springs, the experience is truly rewarding.
Recommended Itineraries
- 4-Day Huangshan Heritage Tour: Includes Yellow Mountain, Hongcun, and Xidi Ancient Villages.
- 3-Day Huangshan Essence Tour: Focuses on Yellow Mountain and Hongcun Village, along with a visit to Tunxi Old Street.
Conclusion
China is a country full of wonders, from its bustling cities to its serene landscapes. Each city offers a unique experience, whether you’re exploring ancient history in Beijing, enjoying the modern vibes of Shanghai, or marveling at the natural beauty in Guilin. Remember to respect the local customs and try the delicious street food. Whether you’re looking for adventure, culture, or relaxation, China has something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey through one of the most fascinating countries in the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some must-see places in Beijing?
In Beijing, don’t miss the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and the Summer Palace. These spots are full of history and offer amazing views.
Is Shanghai good for shopping?
Yes, Shanghai is great for shopping. You can find everything from high-end brands to local markets.
What is special about Xi’an?
Xi’an is famous for the Terracotta Warriors. It’s also a great place to learn about China’s ancient history.
Can I see pandas in Chengdu?
Yes, Chengdu is known for its giant pandas. You can visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding to see them up close.
What makes Guilin a great place to visit?
Guilin is known for its stunning landscapes, especially the Li River and the limestone karst hills. It’s a great place for nature lovers.
Is it easy to get around in Hong Kong?
Yes, Hong Kong has a very efficient public transportation system. You can easily get around using buses, trams, and the MTR subway.
